Health
Delta launches free surgeries for hydrocele, lymphatic filariasis patients
Written By: Udo Inobeme
19 Oct 2025 12:25 PM
Asaba, Delta – The Delta State Government has announced a groundbreaking healthcare initiative, offering free surgical operations and treatments for residents suffering from hydrocele (enlarged scrotum) and lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis.
The program marks a significant step towards improving public health and alleviating the burden of these debilitating conditions, which disproportionately affect underserved communities.
The announcement, made through the Delta State Government’s official X handle (@DSGovernment) and signed by Mr. Harold Ojji, Permanent Secretary/Director of Public Communication, outlines a collaborative effort with The Carter Centre.
This partnership aims to provide specialized care through the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency.
The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to the “MORE Agenda,” a policy framework focused on enhancing the quality of life for Deltans.
Men aged 18 and above with hydrocele are urged to report to the Asaba Specialist Hospital between October 16 and 21, 2025, for free surgical interventions. Following this initial phase, the program will extend to other designated centers, including the Central Hospital in Warri and Eku Baptist Hospital in Eku.
Additionally, both male and female individuals experiencing lymphedema (enlarged limbs) due to lymphatic filariasis are encouraged to visit their nearest health center for free treatment, ensuring broad access across the state’s 25 local government areas.
Lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic disease transmitted through mosquito bites, damages the lymphatic system, leading to severe swelling of the limbs, arms, and genital organs.
Hydrocele, a related condition, involves fluid accumulation around the testicles, causing discomfort and social stigma.
According to the World Health Organization, these conditions affect millions globally, with Nigeria bearing a significant burden. The Delta State Government’s intervention addresses both the medical and psychosocial impacts of these diseases.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration has positioned this program as a cornerstone of its healthcare policy, building on the legacy of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), established in 2016 to ensure universal health coverage.
The Asaba Specialist Hospital, commissioned in 2021 and equipped with specialists in general surgery and urology, will play a pivotal role in delivering these services.
Public health experts anticipate that the initiative could reduce the prevalence of these conditions in Delta State, potentially setting a precedent for other Nigerian states.
The program marks a significant step towards improving public health and alleviating the burden of these debilitating conditions, which disproportionately affect underserved communities.
The announcement, made through the Delta State Government’s official X handle (@DSGovernment) and signed by Mr. Harold Ojji, Permanent Secretary/Director of Public Communication, outlines a collaborative effort with The Carter Centre.
This partnership aims to provide specialized care through the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency.
The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to the “MORE Agenda,” a policy framework focused on enhancing the quality of life for Deltans.
Men aged 18 and above with hydrocele are urged to report to the Asaba Specialist Hospital between October 16 and 21, 2025, for free surgical interventions. Following this initial phase, the program will extend to other designated centers, including the Central Hospital in Warri and Eku Baptist Hospital in Eku.
Additionally, both male and female individuals experiencing lymphedema (enlarged limbs) due to lymphatic filariasis are encouraged to visit their nearest health center for free treatment, ensuring broad access across the state’s 25 local government areas.
Lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic disease transmitted through mosquito bites, damages the lymphatic system, leading to severe swelling of the limbs, arms, and genital organs.
Hydrocele, a related condition, involves fluid accumulation around the testicles, causing discomfort and social stigma.
According to the World Health Organization, these conditions affect millions globally, with Nigeria bearing a significant burden. The Delta State Government’s intervention addresses both the medical and psychosocial impacts of these diseases.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration has positioned this program as a cornerstone of its healthcare policy, building on the legacy of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), established in 2016 to ensure universal health coverage.
The Asaba Specialist Hospital, commissioned in 2021 and equipped with specialists in general surgery and urology, will play a pivotal role in delivering these services.
Public health experts anticipate that the initiative could reduce the prevalence of these conditions in Delta State, potentially setting a precedent for other Nigerian states.
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